The Council of Europe and International Organization of La Francophonie sign a joint statement on reinforcing their cooperation

On May 23, 2008, in Strasbourg, Secretary General of the Council of Europe Terry Davis and Secretary General of La Francophonie Abdou Diouf signed a joint statement aimed at reinforcing cooperation between the council of Europe and the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF).

At the signing of the joint statement, Mr. Davis declared, “The OIF is much more than a cultural entity based on language. It is a political organization whose influence and efficiency are inarguable. The organization shares the same values as the Council of Europe—defending and promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We consider the OIF a very important partner, particularly in work related to promoting these fundamental values.”

For his part, Mr. Diouf expressed his joy at signing this agreement with the Council of Europe, stating, “My wish is to reinforce concerted effort and coordination and to combine our efforts and resources in order to increase the effectiveness of our cooperation and assistance to the public. It is our common duty to find the means of enhancing and reinforcing relations between the OIF and important institutions like the Council of Europe.”

According to an OIF press release describing the event, “The structured dialogue established between the two partners will lead to concrete actions based on working together effectively. It will also be a testament to the added value of collaboration between these two partners. Development efforts will focus on the following areas: human rights, democracy, legal status, cultural diversity, education, youth, media, and civil society.”